Yankee GM Brian Cashman lambasted WFAN talk show host Chris Russo yesterday in a loud exchange that was ignited by Russo branding the newly acquired Cory Lidle as “not a good pitcher.” By the end of the heated 15-minute interview, Russo apologized for upsetting Cashman.

After Cashman warned Russo not to “embarrass himself” and twice said that Russo was acting unprofessional, the confrontation peaked when Russo loudly criticized the signing of Jaret Wright. At that point, a thoroughly annoyed Cashman decided to stay silent for a few moments.

“I’m biting my tongue because you are irritating the heck out of me,” Cashman finally said.

Cashman was also mad that Russo may have insinuated that the GM lied when he said the Bobby Abreu trade would not have been made unless Lidle was included in the deal with the Phillies.

“I heard you told someone that I was lying, I’m not lying,” Cashman said loudly. “Cory Lidle hopefully will have a big impact on this club going forward the rest of the way. The bottom line is he is a Yankee and I’m not going to sit here and listen to you tell me he is not a good pitcher.” A moment later, Cashman composed himself and said that he “loved” Russo.

Russo, who declined to comment for this story, eventually changed the subject, reasoning he didn’t want to lose Cashman as an interview or upset Yankee fans.

“You got me upset,” Cashman said.

At the end of the interview, Russo said, “I’m sorry I got you mad.” Cashman responded, “I’m already over it. Are we still buddies?” With Cashman off the air, Russo said he better not call the Yankees for tickets anytime soon.